The Seventh Anniversary of 9/11

Admiral Michael Mullen Visits Ground Zero

Admiral Michael Mullen Visits Ground Zero

The day after the seventh anniversary of September 11, 2001, Admiral Michael Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff, visited the World Trade Center site. On Wednesday, September 10, Admiral Mullen told the House Armed Services Committee, that the U.S. was “running out of time” when it came to winning the war in Afghanistan. He continued by saying, he thought the war in Afghanistan could be won, but it would require more nation building than bombs.

Mullen stressed the link between Afghanistan and Pakistan since that is where the Taliban and al-Qaeda find safe haven and plan new attacks.
"In my view, these two nations are inextricably linked in a common insurgency that crosses the border between them," he said, adding that he plans "to commission a new, more comprehensive strategy for the region, one that covers both sides of the border.
On Tuesday, Bush announced that 8,000 troops would withdraw from Iraq before the end of the year. Some troops will go to Afghanistan. According the New York Times, President Bush signed an executive order in July, giving American Special Forces permission to attack the enemy within Pakistan’s border. Much to Pakistan’s annoyance, US forces have already invaded their territory in pursuit of the enemy.

I find it very unsettling that on one hand, President Bush has in effect given US troops permission to invade Pakistan in pursuit of the enemy, and on the other hand, Bush condemned the Russians for invading Georgia after the Georgian President initiated attacks in South Ossetia.

On Thursday September 11, the Senator Barack Obama and Senator John McCain put away their swords and paid their respects at Ground Zero, after a solemn service for the victims 9/11.

Admiral Michael Mullen Visits Ground Zero

Admiral Michael Mullen Visits Ground Zero